Starz and Spartacus producers have just cast actors to play famed leader Julius Caesar and wealthy general Marcus Crassus in the hit show. EW has learned exclusively that Australian TV actor Todd Lasance (Crownies) has been cast as a young Caesar, who will begin his ascent toward ruling the empire. He’ll use his intelligence and deadly skill with a sword to try and crush the slave rebellion.

British TV actor Simon Merrells (The Wolfman, Family Affair) will play Crassus, the richest man in Rome, who craves the power and respect that would come from defeating Spartacus.

Spartacus: Vengeance has averaged 3.1 million viewers this season and included some rather spectacular set pieces. Producers say the drama will get even more bloody and shocking toward the finale.